Job Description

John Cotton Group is a family company established in 1916 with a strong traditional British heritage based in the heart of West Yorkshire. With an annual group turnover in excess of 250 million, the Group employs over 1300 people and operates across the globe in the UK and Continental Europe, Asia and Australia.

Position Overview:

The Group Transport Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all transportation operations across the business. This role ensures compliance with transport legislation, optimizes fleet efficiency, manages costs, and delivers high standards of service and safety. The Group Transport Manager will lead a team of drivers, coordinators, and supervisors, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and strategic development of the transport function.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Management

Oversee the daily operation of the transport fleet across multiple sites and division. Ensure vehicles are utilized efficiently to maximize productivity and reduce downtime. Develop and implement route planning, scheduling, and cost-effective transport solutions.

Compliance & Safety

Ensure compliance with all relevant transport laws, regulations, and company policies (e.g., Driver CPC, tachograph rules, vehicle inspections). Maintain up-to-date Operator's Licence requirements across the Group. Promote a culture of safety and manage accident investigations, risk assessments, and corrective actions.

Fleet & Maintenance Management

Oversee the maintenance, repair, and servicing of vehicles to minimize breakdowns and extend fleet lifespan. Work with suppliers and contractors to negotiate service and maintenance contracts. Introduce fleet management systems and technology to monitor vehicle performance and costs.

Financial & Performance Management

Control transport budgets, monitor expenditure, and identify cost-saving opportunities. Track KPIs such as delivery performance, fuel consumption, and fleet utilization. Prepare regular reports for senior management with performance insights and improvement recommendations.

Team Leadership & Development

Lead, train, and develop a team of transport staff, drivers, and coordinators. Ensure effective communication across sites and departments. Drive engagement and accountability within the transport team.

Strategic Planning

Support long-term transport strategy aligned with Company goals. Research and implement innovations in logistics, sustainability, and fleet technology (e.g., electric vehicles, telematics). Work with other departments (logistics, warehouse, sales, etc.) to ensure seamless customer service.

Skills & Qualifications

Proven experience as a Transport/Fleet/Logistics Manager, ideally in a multi-site or group setting. Strong knowledge of transport legislation and compliance requirements. Excellent leadership and people management skills. Strong financial and analytical abilities with experience managing budgets. Proficient in transport management systems (TMS), telematics, and MS Office. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Education & Certifications:

Degree or diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (preferred). CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) in Road Transport (essential). Health & Safety qualifications (desirable).

Key Attributes:

Strategic thinker with hands-on operational ability. Results-driven and cost-conscious. Strong focus on compliance, safety, and service delivery. Adaptable and proactive in problem-solving. Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free flu jabs Free parking Life insurance On-site parking Referral programme Store discount
Work Location: In person